Growing up in the mid west (if you call Cincinnati the mid-west), and having traveled to Korea, Los Angeles, San Francisco, France, and a whole bevy of other cities around the world, you would think that in the 28 years that I have been alive, that I would had made it to Chicago.
Well, Kids, the joke is on you.
It was not until last month that I made any time to spend more than a couple of hours in the Windy City. I traveled there, specifically, on the happen chance that I would meet Keith Boykin, who was participating in the 2006 Gay Games.
When I first read that Keith Boykin would be participating in the 2006 Gay Games in Chicago, the wheels in my head started churning, trying to figure out ways that I could make it there just on the chance that I would be able to see him at a venue in person.Because I was already going on vacation to Michigan the week before the Games, I decided to take an extra few days of vacation days and try to spend them in Chicago. It just so happened that a Cincinnati friend of mine had already rented a three bedroom apartment in Chicago because he was participating in the Games and was driving to Chicago the day after I returned to Cincy from Michigan.
PERFECT TIMING!
Running into my hometown buddies and hanging out in the VIP lounge of the House of Blues was
not on my agenda during my stay in the Windy City, but since it happened, I did not complain too much. Not with the great food that I experienced at Red Light and amazingly cool evening with friends at Crew.
Yesterday was the last day of my Chicago vacation. My bus for Cincinnati was scheduled to leave at 3pm so I did not have that much time to explore the city more before I had to get ready and head out of town. I did meander to Evanston, IL where the Keith Boykin and the Gay Games' Wrestling event
were.
I guess I thought it would be cool if I could just see Keith in person. According to the website, the wrestling event was to begin at 9am, so when I arrived at 10am my hopes to see Mr. Boykin had left me as fast as the L-train leaving Belmont Station.
On arrival I see that there are many wrestlers on the large, tri-serviced mat, but it seemed as though they were taking a break, so I walked half way up the stands where there was a walking row that went around the entire gymnasium.
Standing there alone and taking in the sites, I turned my right and less than 5 feet away from me is Keith Boykin walking towards me!I had a split second to think and the only thing that came to my mind was to say his name. We shook hands and after a couple of seconds of stuttered speech (done by me of course) he resumed on to his seat.
TOO LUCKY!
Time was running short and I was not sure if I would be able to wait until Keith wrestled, but a few moments later the competition started and Keith was the first match. He lost the first match, and I had to leave, but his other matches he won and went on to win the Gold in his division. So if you read this
Keith, great job, but I wish I could have watched you win a match.
Today, I spent my first full day back to work and it was definitely sobering. It's ok though.
PS-I promise that the subsequent post will be a bit more informative...
Needless to say, that I had the time of my life. Here are some of the places that I would suggest hitting up if you have a few days to kill in Chicago.
To Party
Hydrate
3458 N. Halsted St.773-975-9244Hours: 6 p.m.-4 a.m. Sunday; 8 p.m.-4 a.m. Monday though Friday; 8 p.m.-3 a.m. Saturday
To Eat
Red Light
820 W. Randolph Chicago, IL 60607 312.733.8880
Hours: Lunch: Monday - Friday 11:30am - 2:00pm Dinner: Sunday - Thursday 5:30pm - 10:00pm, Friday - Saturday 5:30pm - midnight
* Between June 1st and August 31st we will open for dinner at 6 PM every day
To Chill
House of Blues
329 N. Dearborn Chicago, IL 60610
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Vancouver, British Columbia and Surrounding Area
Vancouver, positioned between the Pacific Ocean and beautiful mountainous terrain, is one of Canada's great cities and because the weather stays so temperate (it doesn't get that cold and also doesn't get much snow, the precipitation comes in the form of rain) that it is a favourable place to live, work and play.
When visiting Vancouver and its surrounding suburbs including North and West Vancouvers, Coquitlim, Burnaby, New Westminister, Victoria, you might want to spend some time downtown first. Plan to spend a few days in and around the city to fully enjoy all that the city offers.
Like most downtowns, Vancouver is not that much different. Here you will find upscale boutiques and restaurants, sumptuous motels as well as places of business. But the difference in the downtown is that it is surrounded by waterfronts to the south and north of the city core and to the west is Stanley Park (more about the park later) and to the east is Gastown and Chinatown. If you want to travel around the city, its best to walk or travel by skytrain, the skytrain is much like a subway that goes underground but goes above the city as well. Driving is ok, but be prepared for traffic, lots of it. So you might want to think of alternate transportation.
Gastown is Vancouver's designated historic section. Gastown was named after Gassy Jack Leighton, an Englishman who arrived on Canadians shores shortly after Confederation. He set up a saloon that did a marvellous business in selling libations. The Government of the day quickly acted (as usual, they wanted a piece of the action..) They forced Leighton to install bedrooms to make the bar legal. Shortly there after a second bar followed and the area was christened "Gassy's Town" Leighton was known for his long winded speeches or "gas" and thus the area was named. This area was a pre-curser to modern day Vancouver.
There are many things to do and in see in and around Vancouver and here are a few things you wont want to miss:
Stanley Park is one of Canada's renowned parks and rightly so. It is second only to the CN Tower in Toronto for its number of visitors per year. The park is surrounded on three sides by the Pacific Ocean it is definitely a 'must see' when you are in Vancouver. The park features woodlands, marshes, gardens, children's play parks, a miniature railway and much more. The park's other main attractions are its marine centre and Canada's largest aquarium and its many Totem Poles. The best thing about Stanley Park is that is so close to the downtown core.
Canada Place with its IMAX theatre and other museums such as the Musuem of Anthropology on the ground of UBC (University of British Columbia) as well as the H. R. Macmillan Space Centre are sure pleasers for the younger set
Finding a place to eat offers no challenges but deciding where, does! With Vancouver's influx of immigrants from Eastern Asia, the city offers a great deal of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai and Korean eateries to choose from. These are followed by Ethiopian and Mongolian followed by old favourites such as Italian and Greek. Of course being beside an ocean offers the best seafood and there is no lack of seafood restaurants to be found either. Besides these, there are also a liberal amount of cafes and fast food joints as well. And if you are interested in doing some dancing while you are eating, the night life is alive and well and living in Vancouver. There are plenty of bars, clubs and discos to dance the night away in.
Throughout the year, special events happen and one of these is the Du Maurier International Jazz Fest. Held in June, it brings together some of the world's best and well known artists to perform. Other festivities during the year are a Moon festival that is held in October; Molson Indy that is held in September and several more in different months.
The downtown of Vancouver can be quite exciting but if more quaint picturesque times and surroundings are more to your liking, then Victoria is what you need to see. Victoria is situated on an island just outside of Vancouver and is accessible by bus and ferry, car and ferry or sea plane.
Victoria is British Columbia's capital city and the second largest in size next to Vancouver. The island features several motels, hotels and bed and breakfasts, but be sure to make reservations as they fill up quickly during the summer months.
Things to do and see on the island include the Parliament buildings, The Royal British Columbia Museum and a few other museums, castles and parks. While you are there you might want to go on a whale watching journey. There are tours and charters available and this is definitely a not to miss opportunity!
Although not as well versed in food as its sister city, Victoria still has its choice of restaurants and eateries. But while on the island, you may want to go to a restaurant for High Tea. It is a copy of the British tradition, but still worth doing just once.
If you are interested in skiing and travel to British Columbia during the winter season, you will want to travel north of Vancouver to places such as Whistler and Blackcomb. It's a several mile drive outside of Vancouver up the Sea to Sky Highway. It is a pricey place to play and stay, but it ranked amongst the best place to ski with in the country of Canada. Going there in the summer and are into mountain biking? The same areas apply to that as well and are also ranked amongst the best in Canada.
No matter what interests you have and enjoy, you will be sure to find them with in and around the city of Vancouver. It is definitely the toast of the west coast.
When visiting Vancouver and its surrounding suburbs including North and West Vancouvers, Coquitlim, Burnaby, New Westminister, Victoria, you might want to spend some time downtown first. Plan to spend a few days in and around the city to fully enjoy all that the city offers.
Like most downtowns, Vancouver is not that much different. Here you will find upscale boutiques and restaurants, sumptuous motels as well as places of business. But the difference in the downtown is that it is surrounded by waterfronts to the south and north of the city core and to the west is Stanley Park (more about the park later) and to the east is Gastown and Chinatown. If you want to travel around the city, its best to walk or travel by skytrain, the skytrain is much like a subway that goes underground but goes above the city as well. Driving is ok, but be prepared for traffic, lots of it. So you might want to think of alternate transportation.
Gastown is Vancouver's designated historic section. Gastown was named after Gassy Jack Leighton, an Englishman who arrived on Canadians shores shortly after Confederation. He set up a saloon that did a marvellous business in selling libations. The Government of the day quickly acted (as usual, they wanted a piece of the action..) They forced Leighton to install bedrooms to make the bar legal. Shortly there after a second bar followed and the area was christened "Gassy's Town" Leighton was known for his long winded speeches or "gas" and thus the area was named. This area was a pre-curser to modern day Vancouver.
There are many things to do and in see in and around Vancouver and here are a few things you wont want to miss:
Stanley Park is one of Canada's renowned parks and rightly so. It is second only to the CN Tower in Toronto for its number of visitors per year. The park is surrounded on three sides by the Pacific Ocean it is definitely a 'must see' when you are in Vancouver. The park features woodlands, marshes, gardens, children's play parks, a miniature railway and much more. The park's other main attractions are its marine centre and Canada's largest aquarium and its many Totem Poles. The best thing about Stanley Park is that is so close to the downtown core.
Canada Place with its IMAX theatre and other museums such as the Musuem of Anthropology on the ground of UBC (University of British Columbia) as well as the H. R. Macmillan Space Centre are sure pleasers for the younger set
Finding a place to eat offers no challenges but deciding where, does! With Vancouver's influx of immigrants from Eastern Asia, the city offers a great deal of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai and Korean eateries to choose from. These are followed by Ethiopian and Mongolian followed by old favourites such as Italian and Greek. Of course being beside an ocean offers the best seafood and there is no lack of seafood restaurants to be found either. Besides these, there are also a liberal amount of cafes and fast food joints as well. And if you are interested in doing some dancing while you are eating, the night life is alive and well and living in Vancouver. There are plenty of bars, clubs and discos to dance the night away in.
Throughout the year, special events happen and one of these is the Du Maurier International Jazz Fest. Held in June, it brings together some of the world's best and well known artists to perform. Other festivities during the year are a Moon festival that is held in October; Molson Indy that is held in September and several more in different months.
The downtown of Vancouver can be quite exciting but if more quaint picturesque times and surroundings are more to your liking, then Victoria is what you need to see. Victoria is situated on an island just outside of Vancouver and is accessible by bus and ferry, car and ferry or sea plane.
Victoria is British Columbia's capital city and the second largest in size next to Vancouver. The island features several motels, hotels and bed and breakfasts, but be sure to make reservations as they fill up quickly during the summer months.
Things to do and see on the island include the Parliament buildings, The Royal British Columbia Museum and a few other museums, castles and parks. While you are there you might want to go on a whale watching journey. There are tours and charters available and this is definitely a not to miss opportunity!
Although not as well versed in food as its sister city, Victoria still has its choice of restaurants and eateries. But while on the island, you may want to go to a restaurant for High Tea. It is a copy of the British tradition, but still worth doing just once.
If you are interested in skiing and travel to British Columbia during the winter season, you will want to travel north of Vancouver to places such as Whistler and Blackcomb. It's a several mile drive outside of Vancouver up the Sea to Sky Highway. It is a pricey place to play and stay, but it ranked amongst the best place to ski with in the country of Canada. Going there in the summer and are into mountain biking? The same areas apply to that as well and are also ranked amongst the best in Canada.
No matter what interests you have and enjoy, you will be sure to find them with in and around the city of Vancouver. It is definitely the toast of the west coast.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Niagara Falls and The Niagara Region
Niagara Falls is one of the southernmost points of Canada and is just a hop, skip and a jump across the Niagara River from the border of New York State.
Niagara Falls consists of a group of 3 different water falls that make up the entire Niagara Falls. These are the American Falls, The Bridal Falls and the Canadian Falls (otherwise known as the Horseshoe Falls because they are in the shape of a horseshoe). The Falls were undoubtedly caused by the last ice age (as were all the Great Lakes) and started to become a tourist destination as early as the mid 1800’s. The city of Niagara Falls was also site of a battle from the War of 1812 (the battle of Lundy’s Lane).
Enough history for now. Since Niagara Falls is such a tourist site, you would think there are lots to do there, right? Well, you are correct! There are tons of great hotels to stay in and some even look out over the falls. Hotels such as the Ramada, Sheraton and the Holiday Inn are usually within most people’s budgets and have indoor swimming pools and pretty much everything one would look for in a hotel.
Eating out isn’t a problem because there are so many great restaurants. One memorable experience you might want to try is eating at the top of the Skylon Tower. It features a revolving restaurant that turns every 15 minutes and since the Falls are illuminated at night, it is truly an experience to remember.
Up for a little adventure? Why not try the Maid of the Mist boat ride? This small boat takes passengers on the Niagara River and up under the Horseshoe Falls (raincoats are provided). Or how about walking under the Falls? How about being suspended over the Falls? There is a ride called the Spanish Areo Car that takes passengers on a round trip from the Canadian side to the US side and back over the Falls. This ride is not for the faint of heart! If you come in the summer, you are in for a treat. The City of Niagara Falls holds fireworks over the Horseshoe Falls which are cool to see. Also during the Christmas season, they hold a large light display which features Disney charachters and hold night parades (yes, that’s what I said) with about a dozen floats and fireworks as well.
There is a lot to do and see in Niagara Falls if you don’t want to get wet. Check out Louis Tussauds’s Wax Museum or how about the Guinness Book of World Records or Marineland Canada or Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory? There are two Casinos in Niagara Falls if winning or losing money is more to your taste. Niagara Falls is also home to a Hard Rock Café and many other places of note such as a Hershey’s store. There is an IMAX Theatre that is also worth checking out to see what’s playing. Hordes of busloads come to visit the Floral Clock that is in the City of Niagara Falls, built in 1950 by Ontario Hydro, it is quite a site to see. If you still want to get wet, the Falls is home to a new indoor water park called Great Wolf Lodge Water Park. This short list only scratches the surface of things to do and see in Niagara Falls, so be prepared to spend some time when you come.
The Falls can also be viewed from the US side. There is a State Park on the New York side that offers a good view of the Falls (not as good the Canadian side, though). My family and I have crossed the border to view the Falls in the winter from the state park. It was cold, but worth it!
If wine and wine tasting is more up to your liking and you have a car or can rent one, it is a good day’s trip to visit the various wineries that are located within the Niagara Region. There are about forty-two wineries in and around Niagara Falls that give free tours and wine tasting. Interested in some history? There are a few forts around Niagara Falls, Fort George is in Niagara on the Lake(a short drive up the Niagara Parkway); Old Fort Erie is in Fort Erie (just a short drive down the Niagara Falls Parkway).
If you are looking for a quaint village to visit, look no further than the village of Niagara on the Lake. Niagara on the Lake was a fort during the war of 1812 and remains today to be a small and interesting town. It features little boutiques, parks and fabulous restaurants and can be a little pricey, but is worth visiting.
The Welland Canal Corridor is also quite interesting place to visit. The 27 mile long Canal is literally a ship elevator that take both Lakers (Great Lake ships) and Salties (ocean going ships) from one lake to another. The Canal runs between Lakes Ontario and Erie and quite interesting to see as well. If you want to visit this, you will want to head towards Lock 3 with its viewing tower (located in St. Catharines, Ontario)
So why has Niagara Falls been called the “honeymoon capital of the world”? It is because in 1802, the daughter of US Vice President Aaron Burr’s daughter celebrated her honeymoon in the Falls, followed by Jerome Bonaparte, brother of Napoleon. The phrase ‘honeymoon capital of the world’ began being touted in the early twentieth century and still lives up to this reputation today.
Whether you come for a few days to the Niagara region of a little longer, it is an experience that you will remember for a lifetime!
Niagara Falls consists of a group of 3 different water falls that make up the entire Niagara Falls. These are the American Falls, The Bridal Falls and the Canadian Falls (otherwise known as the Horseshoe Falls because they are in the shape of a horseshoe). The Falls were undoubtedly caused by the last ice age (as were all the Great Lakes) and started to become a tourist destination as early as the mid 1800’s. The city of Niagara Falls was also site of a battle from the War of 1812 (the battle of Lundy’s Lane).
Enough history for now. Since Niagara Falls is such a tourist site, you would think there are lots to do there, right? Well, you are correct! There are tons of great hotels to stay in and some even look out over the falls. Hotels such as the Ramada, Sheraton and the Holiday Inn are usually within most people’s budgets and have indoor swimming pools and pretty much everything one would look for in a hotel.
Eating out isn’t a problem because there are so many great restaurants. One memorable experience you might want to try is eating at the top of the Skylon Tower. It features a revolving restaurant that turns every 15 minutes and since the Falls are illuminated at night, it is truly an experience to remember.
Up for a little adventure? Why not try the Maid of the Mist boat ride? This small boat takes passengers on the Niagara River and up under the Horseshoe Falls (raincoats are provided). Or how about walking under the Falls? How about being suspended over the Falls? There is a ride called the Spanish Areo Car that takes passengers on a round trip from the Canadian side to the US side and back over the Falls. This ride is not for the faint of heart! If you come in the summer, you are in for a treat. The City of Niagara Falls holds fireworks over the Horseshoe Falls which are cool to see. Also during the Christmas season, they hold a large light display which features Disney charachters and hold night parades (yes, that’s what I said) with about a dozen floats and fireworks as well.
There is a lot to do and see in Niagara Falls if you don’t want to get wet. Check out Louis Tussauds’s Wax Museum or how about the Guinness Book of World Records or Marineland Canada or Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory? There are two Casinos in Niagara Falls if winning or losing money is more to your taste. Niagara Falls is also home to a Hard Rock Café and many other places of note such as a Hershey’s store. There is an IMAX Theatre that is also worth checking out to see what’s playing. Hordes of busloads come to visit the Floral Clock that is in the City of Niagara Falls, built in 1950 by Ontario Hydro, it is quite a site to see. If you still want to get wet, the Falls is home to a new indoor water park called Great Wolf Lodge Water Park. This short list only scratches the surface of things to do and see in Niagara Falls, so be prepared to spend some time when you come.
The Falls can also be viewed from the US side. There is a State Park on the New York side that offers a good view of the Falls (not as good the Canadian side, though). My family and I have crossed the border to view the Falls in the winter from the state park. It was cold, but worth it!
If wine and wine tasting is more up to your liking and you have a car or can rent one, it is a good day’s trip to visit the various wineries that are located within the Niagara Region. There are about forty-two wineries in and around Niagara Falls that give free tours and wine tasting. Interested in some history? There are a few forts around Niagara Falls, Fort George is in Niagara on the Lake(a short drive up the Niagara Parkway); Old Fort Erie is in Fort Erie (just a short drive down the Niagara Falls Parkway).
If you are looking for a quaint village to visit, look no further than the village of Niagara on the Lake. Niagara on the Lake was a fort during the war of 1812 and remains today to be a small and interesting town. It features little boutiques, parks and fabulous restaurants and can be a little pricey, but is worth visiting.
The Welland Canal Corridor is also quite interesting place to visit. The 27 mile long Canal is literally a ship elevator that take both Lakers (Great Lake ships) and Salties (ocean going ships) from one lake to another. The Canal runs between Lakes Ontario and Erie and quite interesting to see as well. If you want to visit this, you will want to head towards Lock 3 with its viewing tower (located in St. Catharines, Ontario)
So why has Niagara Falls been called the “honeymoon capital of the world”? It is because in 1802, the daughter of US Vice President Aaron Burr’s daughter celebrated her honeymoon in the Falls, followed by Jerome Bonaparte, brother of Napoleon. The phrase ‘honeymoon capital of the world’ began being touted in the early twentieth century and still lives up to this reputation today.
Whether you come for a few days to the Niagara region of a little longer, it is an experience that you will remember for a lifetime!
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Ottawa. Canada's Capital City
Canada's capital city is Ottawa and this city can be found in the province of Ontario.
Situated on Ottawa River and snuggled up against the Canadian Shield, it offers great scenery and it is a great place to visit. A holiday in the city of Ottawa will not only net you an education about the history of the country of Canada but you can also discover great and new things about the country as well.
Ottawa has been Canada's capital since before the confederation of Canada in 1867. Ottawa was chosen as the capital of the Province of Canada in 1859 and finished building the parliament buildings shortly after that in 1866. Back then, it was a small industrial town, but kept growing virtually without any city plan. In 1900, much of the city was destroyed by fire as most of the building were made with wood and in 1916, a large portion of the parliament buildings were destroyed, also by fire. And today the city boasts a population of 774,072 making it Canada's fourth largest city and second largest in the province of Ontario (following Toronto, and just slightly ahead of Hamilton.)
If you are interested in the beginnings of Canada and its political system and wish to tour the parliament, tours are available and are free (it depends on what season it is and if the parliament is in session, call first.) There are many other historic and interesting sites to see in Ottawa including The Bank of Canadian Currency Museum (very interesting…shows you the history of money); The National Gallery of Canada (features all types of arts); Canadian Science and Technology Museum; Canadian Museum of Civilization and Canadian War Museum, just to name a few.
Not only the capital but a vibrant and current city in the country of Canada, the city boasts over thirty museums as well as fifty galleries and theatres Do you need a place to stay for a few days while you visit Ottawa? There are almost 100 hotels and motels to choose from including three Comfort Inns placed strategically in and around the Ottawa area. Other hotels include The Sheraton; several Holiday Inns and many other to choose from. Whether you want an upscale place to spend the night or something that leans more towards your budget, there are many to choose from.
Want to go on a shopping trip and pick up some souvenirs? Check out Ottawa's historic ByWard Market. It is not your average shopping mall (though Ottawa does have several of those too). The ByWard Market is an outdoor 4 block radius which consists of many farmer's stalls as well as contemporary shops, boutiques and restaurants. Established in 1826 by Lt-Col. John By (the legendary builder of the Rideau Canal), it is one of Canada's largest and oldest markets. Situated near to the Parliament buildings, the location makes it a must see during your visit to Ottawa.
Everyone has to eat and Ottawa offers so many choices. You can have a North American Breakfast, walk a short distance and go to Italy for lunch and see the sites in the afternoon and then go to Thailand for supper. The options are almost endless. It depends on what kind of food interests your palate that particular day. Ottawa is also home to a Hard Rock Cafe which is located within the ByWard Market and with lots of other bars that one could spend some fun filled hours during an evening at.
The city of Ottawa boasts that it is one of the coldest capital cities in the world, but rather than huddle around the fireplace, the city's inhabitants celebrate the weather. The Rideau Canal (built over the years 1826 to 1832) freezes during the winter and a large section of it becomes an ice rink. Interested in in-line skating during the summer? The city of Ottawa boasts 170 kilometres of pathways that can be used for skating, biking and walking, not to mention other parks and greenspaces.
The city of Ottawa is also one of the best places to learn and with more than 5 colleges and universities to boast about, it makes the city most prominent in the country with one college and one university's courses being delivered in the French language. Since Canada is officially bi-lingual, the city operates in both languages. But not to worry if you don't speak any French, you can still manage to navigate the city without being bi-lingual. But now might be the perfect opportunity to pick up some words or phrases, right?
No matter what you come to Ottawa for (Ottawa has been host to the G-8 Summit in past years) and even if you aren't a world leader, whether you come to Ottawa for business or for pleasure, with a little planning, you can make your trip a very memorable one.
Situated on Ottawa River and snuggled up against the Canadian Shield, it offers great scenery and it is a great place to visit. A holiday in the city of Ottawa will not only net you an education about the history of the country of Canada but you can also discover great and new things about the country as well.
Ottawa has been Canada's capital since before the confederation of Canada in 1867. Ottawa was chosen as the capital of the Province of Canada in 1859 and finished building the parliament buildings shortly after that in 1866. Back then, it was a small industrial town, but kept growing virtually without any city plan. In 1900, much of the city was destroyed by fire as most of the building were made with wood and in 1916, a large portion of the parliament buildings were destroyed, also by fire. And today the city boasts a population of 774,072 making it Canada's fourth largest city and second largest in the province of Ontario (following Toronto, and just slightly ahead of Hamilton.)
If you are interested in the beginnings of Canada and its political system and wish to tour the parliament, tours are available and are free (it depends on what season it is and if the parliament is in session, call first.) There are many other historic and interesting sites to see in Ottawa including The Bank of Canadian Currency Museum (very interesting…shows you the history of money); The National Gallery of Canada (features all types of arts); Canadian Science and Technology Museum; Canadian Museum of Civilization and Canadian War Museum, just to name a few.
Not only the capital but a vibrant and current city in the country of Canada, the city boasts over thirty museums as well as fifty galleries and theatres Do you need a place to stay for a few days while you visit Ottawa? There are almost 100 hotels and motels to choose from including three Comfort Inns placed strategically in and around the Ottawa area. Other hotels include The Sheraton; several Holiday Inns and many other to choose from. Whether you want an upscale place to spend the night or something that leans more towards your budget, there are many to choose from.
Want to go on a shopping trip and pick up some souvenirs? Check out Ottawa's historic ByWard Market. It is not your average shopping mall (though Ottawa does have several of those too). The ByWard Market is an outdoor 4 block radius which consists of many farmer's stalls as well as contemporary shops, boutiques and restaurants. Established in 1826 by Lt-Col. John By (the legendary builder of the Rideau Canal), it is one of Canada's largest and oldest markets. Situated near to the Parliament buildings, the location makes it a must see during your visit to Ottawa.
Everyone has to eat and Ottawa offers so many choices. You can have a North American Breakfast, walk a short distance and go to Italy for lunch and see the sites in the afternoon and then go to Thailand for supper. The options are almost endless. It depends on what kind of food interests your palate that particular day. Ottawa is also home to a Hard Rock Cafe which is located within the ByWard Market and with lots of other bars that one could spend some fun filled hours during an evening at.
The city of Ottawa boasts that it is one of the coldest capital cities in the world, but rather than huddle around the fireplace, the city's inhabitants celebrate the weather. The Rideau Canal (built over the years 1826 to 1832) freezes during the winter and a large section of it becomes an ice rink. Interested in in-line skating during the summer? The city of Ottawa boasts 170 kilometres of pathways that can be used for skating, biking and walking, not to mention other parks and greenspaces.
The city of Ottawa is also one of the best places to learn and with more than 5 colleges and universities to boast about, it makes the city most prominent in the country with one college and one university's courses being delivered in the French language. Since Canada is officially bi-lingual, the city operates in both languages. But not to worry if you don't speak any French, you can still manage to navigate the city without being bi-lingual. But now might be the perfect opportunity to pick up some words or phrases, right?
No matter what you come to Ottawa for (Ottawa has been host to the G-8 Summit in past years) and even if you aren't a world leader, whether you come to Ottawa for business or for pleasure, with a little planning, you can make your trip a very memorable one.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Toronto, Jewel Of The North
When you think of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, you probably think of ice and snow and how cold their winters are, but not too much else, right? But there is so much more to that great city than meets the eye or the imagination.
Toronto is the capital of Ontario and the financial capital of Canada and a busy metropolis. Found on the shores of Lake Ontario and on the St. Lawrence Seaway, it is important port and is city is a beautiful place to spend a day, month or a lifetime or anything in between. The temperatures can range from well into the 90’s during the summer and hover around freezing or up to 10 degrees below in the winter with an average of five inches of snow per winter.
In and around the city of Toronto there are plenty of things to see and do and experience! There is so much that make the city of Toronto the exciting, vibrant city it is! It boasts many cultural areas such as a large China town, Little Italy, Greektown and even a French quarter. Toronto is a world class city with an excellent subway system and a large concourse of underground shopping malls running through out the downtown core. With many large highways and a major airport nearby, it’s easy to get to as well for the long distance traveler.
All through the year, you can find many activities and different venues of entertainment that fit into everybody’s interests and tastes. And speaking of tastes, in Toronto there is almost every country of the world represented by way of restaurants. There are a huge number of first class restaurants down town and through out the city. Feel like eating some Chinese today and may a Mexican dish tomorrow? No problem at all! You could go out to eat every night and almost never go to the same restaurant twice. Along with different and exotic foods, you can find a great restaurant to grab a burger at after a day or shopping or sightseeing.
Shops and boutiques are plentiful in and around the city. The stores of Hazelton Lanes can compare with the boutiques on Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles or the one’s on Fifth Avenue in New York City. Who knows you meet even meet a star or two catching a bargain (the American dollar gets a little extra bang since the Canadian dollar is worth slightly –about 10 cents less than the US dollar). Toronto is dubbed “Hollywood North” by many producers and directors and many movies are filmed there. Hey, I have even seen Robin Williams walk past me down Yonge Street! (Yonge Street is one of Toronto’s major thorough-fares and Ontario’s longest street) So if you are lucky, you might even see stars when you venture in and around the city!
Toronto also has many 5 star hotels in its exciting downtown area to spend a few days in. Hotels such as Intercontinental, The Sheraton, Holiday Inn, and The Delta-Chelsea to name just a few of the major hotels that are in the immediate downtown area, put you in the center of the city’s non-stop action and are a treat to stay at and feature amenities that some only dream of.
Special attractions that will interest the whole family can be found such as the Royal Ontario Museum, The Ontario Science Centre, The CN Tower (the world’s tallest free-standing structure), The Metro Toronto Zoo, Paramount Canada’s Wonderland (a huge amusement park), and Centre Island. These venues along with many others make it a very appealing city for a family get-away.
Do you have a sports fan in the family? Come and visit the Hockey Hall of Fame (the home of hockey!) Toronto also is the home to 4 professional sports teams: The Toronto Blue Jays (Baseball); The Toronto Raptors (Basketball); The Toronto Maple Leafs (Hockey) and The Toronto Argonauts (Football within the Canadian Football League or CFL – Canada’s Version of the NFL). It is also home to such exciting sports events as Dragon Boat Racing and The Molson Indy that was held here in Toronto just a month ago. The city also is the home to Skydome, - known as the Air Canada Center, the world’s first multi use stadium with a retractable roof which houses these venues along with concerts and more.
Culture, theatre and music are also very much alive and well in Toronto. Plays such as “Cats” and “Mamma Mia” have enjoyed successful runs in the various theatres such as The Princess of Wales Theatre and Pantages Theatre here. Acts such as Hillary Duff, Sarah McLachlan, WWW Raw, U2, Elton John, Duran Duran, Van Morrison, Shakira, The Foo Fighters, The Black Eyed Peas and Hall and Oates have played or are playing at the in venues including the Air Canada Centre or are doing so in the near future. There is also great Jazz clubs, beautiful symphony music and pretty much any type of music, film, comedy (home of Second City), well just about anything that would appeal to the creative side of you, you are able to find it here in the city of Toronto.
Special events and cultural events are held at different times through the year, these are the Gay Pride Parade and other events such as The Canadian National Exhibition, Caribana (the largest celebration in North America of the Caribbean way of life and features a massive parade that is the highlight of every year’s festivities and draws people from all over North America to enjoy these happenings.
Toronto also boasts several top rate universities and colleges, like the University of Toronto (opened in 1857) is Canada’s largest and York University, Canada’s 3rd largest university and along with a great public school system, it’s a great place to raise a family. Housing can be reasonable or pricey depending on the part of the city that you live in, but with a great transit system, you are within hours of the downtown, no matter where you live.
No matter what you find yourself doing in Toronto, whether it is business, living there or visiting there on a vacation, you will find that Toronto is a great place to visit, work, and play and live!
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Toronto is the capital of Ontario and the financial capital of Canada and a busy metropolis. Found on the shores of Lake Ontario and on the St. Lawrence Seaway, it is important port and is city is a beautiful place to spend a day, month or a lifetime or anything in between. The temperatures can range from well into the 90’s during the summer and hover around freezing or up to 10 degrees below in the winter with an average of five inches of snow per winter.
In and around the city of Toronto there are plenty of things to see and do and experience! There is so much that make the city of Toronto the exciting, vibrant city it is! It boasts many cultural areas such as a large China town, Little Italy, Greektown and even a French quarter. Toronto is a world class city with an excellent subway system and a large concourse of underground shopping malls running through out the downtown core. With many large highways and a major airport nearby, it’s easy to get to as well for the long distance traveler.
All through the year, you can find many activities and different venues of entertainment that fit into everybody’s interests and tastes. And speaking of tastes, in Toronto there is almost every country of the world represented by way of restaurants. There are a huge number of first class restaurants down town and through out the city. Feel like eating some Chinese today and may a Mexican dish tomorrow? No problem at all! You could go out to eat every night and almost never go to the same restaurant twice. Along with different and exotic foods, you can find a great restaurant to grab a burger at after a day or shopping or sightseeing.
Shops and boutiques are plentiful in and around the city. The stores of Hazelton Lanes can compare with the boutiques on Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles or the one’s on Fifth Avenue in New York City. Who knows you meet even meet a star or two catching a bargain (the American dollar gets a little extra bang since the Canadian dollar is worth slightly –about 10 cents less than the US dollar). Toronto is dubbed “Hollywood North” by many producers and directors and many movies are filmed there. Hey, I have even seen Robin Williams walk past me down Yonge Street! (Yonge Street is one of Toronto’s major thorough-fares and Ontario’s longest street) So if you are lucky, you might even see stars when you venture in and around the city!
Toronto also has many 5 star hotels in its exciting downtown area to spend a few days in. Hotels such as Intercontinental, The Sheraton, Holiday Inn, and The Delta-Chelsea to name just a few of the major hotels that are in the immediate downtown area, put you in the center of the city’s non-stop action and are a treat to stay at and feature amenities that some only dream of.
Special attractions that will interest the whole family can be found such as the Royal Ontario Museum, The Ontario Science Centre, The CN Tower (the world’s tallest free-standing structure), The Metro Toronto Zoo, Paramount Canada’s Wonderland (a huge amusement park), and Centre Island. These venues along with many others make it a very appealing city for a family get-away.
Do you have a sports fan in the family? Come and visit the Hockey Hall of Fame (the home of hockey!) Toronto also is the home to 4 professional sports teams: The Toronto Blue Jays (Baseball); The Toronto Raptors (Basketball); The Toronto Maple Leafs (Hockey) and The Toronto Argonauts (Football within the Canadian Football League or CFL – Canada’s Version of the NFL). It is also home to such exciting sports events as Dragon Boat Racing and The Molson Indy that was held here in Toronto just a month ago. The city also is the home to Skydome, - known as the Air Canada Center, the world’s first multi use stadium with a retractable roof which houses these venues along with concerts and more.
Culture, theatre and music are also very much alive and well in Toronto. Plays such as “Cats” and “Mamma Mia” have enjoyed successful runs in the various theatres such as The Princess of Wales Theatre and Pantages Theatre here. Acts such as Hillary Duff, Sarah McLachlan, WWW Raw, U2, Elton John, Duran Duran, Van Morrison, Shakira, The Foo Fighters, The Black Eyed Peas and Hall and Oates have played or are playing at the in venues including the Air Canada Centre or are doing so in the near future. There is also great Jazz clubs, beautiful symphony music and pretty much any type of music, film, comedy (home of Second City), well just about anything that would appeal to the creative side of you, you are able to find it here in the city of Toronto.
Special events and cultural events are held at different times through the year, these are the Gay Pride Parade and other events such as The Canadian National Exhibition, Caribana (the largest celebration in North America of the Caribbean way of life and features a massive parade that is the highlight of every year’s festivities and draws people from all over North America to enjoy these happenings.
Toronto also boasts several top rate universities and colleges, like the University of Toronto (opened in 1857) is Canada’s largest and York University, Canada’s 3rd largest university and along with a great public school system, it’s a great place to raise a family. Housing can be reasonable or pricey depending on the part of the city that you live in, but with a great transit system, you are within hours of the downtown, no matter where you live.
No matter what you find yourself doing in Toronto, whether it is business, living there or visiting there on a vacation, you will find that Toronto is a great place to visit, work, and play and live!
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